We have two excellent 2012 cigar releases to review today in the form of the Rocky Patel Edge Habano Toro and the CLE Connecticut Robusto.

Rocky Patel Edge Habano Toro

The Edge Habano from Rocky Patel was unveiled at this year’s IPCPR show in Orlando with the hopes of building off the popularity of the original Edge line.  It finally began shipping in September, and the folks at Rocky Patel promise that it will be a continued release and not a one-time limited gig.  I enjoyed the original Edge and have never really had a bad Rocky Patel experience, so I am expecting good things from this Habano Toro I am about to sample.

The Rocky Patel Edge Habano Toro measures 6 x 52.  The line comes in just one other format – the 6 x 52 Torpedo.  The Edge Habano is unique due to the fact that it is a Nicaraguan puro made completely from Nicaraguan tobaccos.  The filler and binder come from the country’s Condega, Esteli, and Jalapa regions.  The wrapper, meanwhile, is of the Habano Seed variety.  As far as strength is concerned, the Edge Habano is said to be full-bodied.

The Rocky Patel Edge Habano is a good looking cigar, but its band seems a bit out of place.  It has this Miami Vice type vibe due to its light blue band.  This band color was apparently chosen to help differentiate the Edge Habano from its predecessors.  The band features the Edge name along with the Rocky Patel logo.  The cigar itself has a dark and oily wrapper.  There are some minor veins spread throughout, and it has a rustic and toothy appearance.  As I feel the cigar, it seems to be well-packed with tobacco.  I pick up a pre-light aroma that is spicy, while the cold taste is somewhat sweet and chocolaty.

Once lit, the Edge Habano Toro performs well.  The draw is just right.  The burn is slow and even.  Plenty of smoke is produced.  I only need one minor touch-up and no re-lights.  The ash is solid and gray.  Zero complaints in this department.